How Amaryllis Blooms Again

Amaryllis is gorgeous in full bloom, and with special care you can get it to bloom again next year.

A common mistake with Hippeastrum (means ``horse star``) is letting the plant dry out after it finishes blooming. After flowers have wilted, the green leaves should be kept growing. When the weather is warm enough, move plants outdoors to a semi-sunny spot and continue watering regularly and feeding monthly with a complete garden fertilizer.

In late summer or fall, leaves should start yellowing. This is a signal to withhold water and let foliage die down. You can set the potted bulb in a garage or basement that maintains a temperature of about 55 degrees. Keep the plant there for six to eight weeks without water.

Then remove the top inch of soil and replace with new soil, plus a teaspoon of bonemeal, and water once, moderately. Wait until new growth appears; then start watering regularly. Water sparingly at first, gradually increasing the amount, and feed monthly. Bulbs can use a pot for three years. There should be an inch of space on each side of the bulb. When the bulb outgrows the pot, repot in a well-drained mix after dormant period, just before growth starts. Be sure to leave one-third to one-half of the bulb sticking out of the soil. -